People

Winter Haven, Florida -- A study shows Polk State College acts as an economic engine worth almost half a billion dollars to the local economy.

Most of the $481.8 million impact comes from the increased money earned by students and alumni because of their advanced education, the study found.

Economic Modeling Specialists, Intl. -- or EMSI -- is the firm behind the study, which was commissioned to look at the entire Florida College System, according to this announcement of the results released by Polk State:

Polk County, Florida-- Do you know someone who once attended a Polk County Public School, and has since made significant career contributions? If so, you're encourage to nominate them for induction into the Polk County Public Schools Hall of Fame!

According to the county, 103 members have been inducted since its inception in 1985, including last year's inductees, Sheriff Grady Judd, Dr. George E. Lees, Kathleen Parker and Michael Yon.

Your nominee could be making a difference in a variety of professional areas including:

akeland, Florida -- Polk County Commissioner John Hall and City of Lakeland Commissioner Phillip Walker are hosting a town hall meeting at 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 7 at the North Lakeland YMCA, 2125 Sleepy Hill Road, Lakeland.

Residents are invited to meet with the commissioners to discuss issues and concerns relevant to the community.

For more information, contact Commissioner Hall's office at 863-534-6049 or the City of Lakeland Communications office at 863-834-6264.